Nebraska Governor's Office Defends $2.5M No-Bid Contract

Pillen administration changes explanation for emergency contract with lobbyist

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The administration of Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is facing scrutiny over a $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract awarded to a lobbyist. The governor's office has changed its story multiple times about how and why the contract was awarded.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest in state government contracting, as well as the use of emergency powers to bypass normal procurement processes.

The details

According to reports, the Pillen administration initially claimed the contract was awarded to address an urgent need, but has since provided a new explanation that the timing between the application submission and contract award was necessary to maximize the state's grant funding. The contract was awarded to a lobbyist who had previously received over $2 million in state funds from the governor's office.

  • The contract was awarded in February 2026.

The players

Jim Pillen

The governor of Nebraska who awarded the $2.5 million no-bid contract.

Julie Slama

A lobbyist who received the $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract from the Pillen administration.

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What’s next

The state legislature is expected to investigate the contract award and the governor's use of emergency powers.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and transparency in state government contracting processes, especially when it comes to no-bid emergency contracts and potential conflicts of interest.